Colombian President Asks Trump to Suspend Tariffs Amid Earthquake Recovery

Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella on Saturday requested President Trump to temporarily suspend U.S. tariffs on Colombia, citing the nation’s struggles following a devastating 7.4-magnitude earthquake.

Trump Expresses Condolences, Conversation ‘Friendly and Cordial’

De la Espriella spoke with Trump for approximately 10 minutes, during which the president offered condolences for the deaths resulting from the earthquake. The Colombian leader described the conversation as “very friendly and cordial,” noting the challenging rebuilding efforts and economic situation he inherited.

Tariffs Increased in July

U.S. tariffs on Colombian products rose to 12.5% in late July, up from 10%, with exemptions for coffee and oil. These tariffs, implemented under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, replaced previous levies enacted under Section 122 of the same act which had expired.

Background on Tariffs and Political Context

The tariff increase followed a Supreme Court ruling in February that invalidated sweeping tariffs enacted under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977. President Trump had previously endorsed De la Espriella during his campaign. De la Espriella’s predecessor, Gustavo Petro, faced U.S. sanctions and a federal narcotics probe. De la Espriella now heads the ‘Shield of the Americas’ alliance with Trump, coordinating with pro-U.S. governments in Latin America, including Argentina, Ecuador, and El Salvador, to combat transnational criminal activity. He also plans to forge a military alliance with the U.S. and Israel to counter guerrilla groups.

The earthquake devastated cities like Cali and Pereira, resulting in nearly 300 deaths and the destruction of approximately 13,000 homes. (Image: Building debris in Pereira, Colombia, Aug. 15, 2026)